Fun without the funds: Free tickets and cheap food at Great Community Giveback Game

On Monday, Gaston residents won’t find a cheaper date than at Sims Legion Park. The Gastonia Grizzlies’ fourth annual Great Community Giveback Game will offer plenty of fun at discount prices, all as a thank you to fans on the last game of the season.

Sponsors Aaron’s, BSI, OrthoCarolina, Walmart and Bi-Lo bought all the game tickets, which means everyone gets in for free. Tickets will be available at the door, and some will be given away in the community before the event. Last year, the stadium reached capacity, and some fans had to be turned away.

“Each year has gotten bigger and bigger,” said Jesse Cole, Grizzlies managing partner. “We expect this to be the biggest ever, max capacity crowd. The big advice is to get there early to get a seat.”

It could be a record-breaking day. More than 4,400 people are expected to come, which would surpass the 4,381 at last year’s Community Giveback game and perhaps the single game attendance record for this season. It could also set the team up to break 2012’s season record, which was 59,310 fans, Cole said.

“A team like this can’t survive without community support. We’ve been absolutely blown away by the support the last few years. [This event] is a thank you for all of the support and an opportunity for all the people who haven’t been out to come out and have a really good family experience.”

Hungry fans are in luck, as the first 1,000 people will be treated to a free hot dog, drink and chips courtesy of the sponsors. But those who arrive too late for this offer won’t burn a hole in their wallet. Soft drinks, hot dogs, chips and candy will be a dollar each and beer will be $1.50. There will also be plenty of giveaways, including gift cards for Papa Johns, Olive Garden and Outback.

“We’re going to go all out with performances and promotions and all that stuff,” Cole said. “There’s going to be a lot of surprises that night.”

Great Community Giveback Game

Where: Sims Legion Park, 1001 N. Marietta St., Gastonia

When: Monday, gates open at 6 p.m., game against Columbia starts at 7:30 p.m.